Authoritarians Quote by Robert Sapolsky
“Authoritarians have always been here. But the features of a given moment make that way of thinking more or less appealing. Germany in the 1920s, when people are starving, suddenly makes 'populist' answers and scapegoating different groups as the source of the problem much more appealing.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst, Robert Sapolsky, 2017
Authoritarian ideas recur, but their attractiveness shifts with economic hardship and social fear, making scapegoating more persuasive in crises.
In simple terms: Hard times make authoritarian ideas seem appealing.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how crises amplify extremist appeal.
Themes
politics
psychology
history
economics
Mood
concerned
analytical
Type
observational
critical
When to use this quote
- political campaigns
- public policy debates
- media analysis
- community organizing
Key Concepts
authoritarianism
scapegoating
social fear
economic hardship
Questions to Reflect On
- How do economic conditions influence political preferences?
- What strategies reduce scapegoating?
A Different Perspective
Appeal can be countered by addressing underlying needs and promoting inclusive narratives.
